Tufts Squash Center

An impassioned group of alumni, parents, and friends came together to make possible a new era for Tufts University squash. Last summer, construction started on an eight-court facility—including a glass show court, designed for spectators—that positions the university to host New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) and regional intercollegiate, as well as high school and club tournaments.

Some two decades ago, changes in court-size regulations forced the Tufts men’s and women’s teams to stop playing at Cousens Gymnasium, and instead rent space at Harvard and a private high school for practices and matches.

Now the Jumbos have a sparkling new home to call their own. The $6 million facility, which was entirely funded by donors. opened on February 1 with the Jumbos’ hosting conference matches against Connecticut College.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who so generously stepped up to give our squash program this beautiful new on-campus home,” said John Morris, director of athletics, noting that the facility will also enhance recruiting. “It will be a true game changer in terms of attracting the best and brightest squash student-athletes and hosting high-level competition at Tufts. From a broader perspective, this facility is also just another example of how philanthropy is helping us meet critical priorities for Tufts Athletics and give everyone in the Tufts community first-class options to pursue fitness, health, and wellness.”

Trustee emeritus Nathan Gantcher, A62, H04, donated a show court. The Gantchers also made possible the adjacent Gantcher Family Sports and Convocation Center that opened in 1999. Cynthia Borger, J87, A19P, and Vivek Shah, A94, were also among those who made generous contributions.

“I’m thrilled to support a program that will serve the university for years to come,” said Borger, a member of the Athletics Board of Advisors. “It’s a win-win for athletics and for the entire community.”

In addition to sweeping Connecticut College in the first matches played at the Tufts Squash Center on February 1, the facility has also already hosted a portion of the College Squash Association Team Championships on March 1. Tufts also expects the new facility will help in their efforts to develop squash programs with host communities Somerville and Medford.